FBI Warns of Hackers Altering Photos Found on Social Media to Use as Fake Proof

A new alert warns people about a growing scam that uses altered photos to trick families into paying fake ransom demands.

In a notice titled Alert Number: I-120525-PSA, dated December 5, 2025. The FBI explains that criminals are taking photos from social media and other public sites and altering them.

Then, they are used as fake “proof of life” in virtual kidnapping scams. The goal is to scare victims into sending money quickly. In these scams, criminals contact someone by text message and claim they have kidnapped a loved one.

They demand money and often threaten serious harm if the ransom is not paid right away. To make the threat seem real, scammers send what appears to be a real photo or video of the supposed victim.

However, these images are often altered. When compared to real photos of the loved one, there may be clear mistakes.

For example, tattoos or scars might be missing, or the person’s body shape and size may look wrong. Scammers sometimes send these pictures via timed messages that disappear, leaving the victim little time to examine them closely.

The FBI is urging the public to be careful when posting missing-person information or personal photos online, as scammers can use these images to support their lies.

People are also advised not to share personal details with strangers while traveling. Families are encouraged to set up a secret code word known only to close relatives.

This can be used to confirm whether a person is genuinely in danger quickly. The FBI also advises people to pause and think before reacting to frightening messages and to always contact their loved ones directly before paying any money. If you believe you have been targeted in a virtual kidnapping scam.

FBI urges users to report it to the Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov and include phone numbers, payment details, messages, and any images you received.

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